As many of you are aware the village was recently host to a
group of uninvited visitors. Having forcibly gained access to
the playing field they proceeded to set up a camp of approximately
20 caravans on one of the football pitches and drive their 4x4
vehicles over the whole of the playing field causing considerable
damage. Several dogs were left to roam across the field interfering
with any activities undertaken by the residents and a number
of horses were also grazing the field.
The local police were immediately contacted but were unable
to provide assistance as trespass is a civil and not a criminal
matter. The police did not have the manpower to provide a constant
presence during the visitors stay. The Trust and Parish Council
were concerned with the loss of public amenity, the damage caused
to community facilities, environmental health risks, and also
for the safety and security of the villagers, so moved promptly
with the aim of expediting their eviction and restoring the
land to its intended purpose. As the land is owned by the Community
Trust the district council were unable to assist in the removal
of the guests.
The Trust, working closely with the Parish Council had to proceed
on their own in taking legal action to have the visitors removed.
Within 24 hours of their arrival application had been made to
the court and a date set for the hearing. The case was then
heard and judgement passed in favour of the Trust. An eviction
notice was then served on the travellers and they were removed
from the field within 48 hours of their arrival.
Many thanks to all of those who helped with the process especially
those residents who helped clear up the aftermath. Hopefully
with the advice of Babergh the Trust will be able to secure
the site so that we do not have to go through this process again.
